Arcoxia

Dr. Patience White, M.D., Speaks on Behalf of 46 Million Americans With Arthritis

ATLANTA, April 09, 2007 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Dr. Patience White, M.D., chief public health officer for the Arthritis Foundation, will testify before the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Arthritis Advisory Committee regarding Merck & Co.'s request for approval of Arcoxia. Arcoxia -- a COX-2 inhibitor -- is being considered for relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis. If approved, Arcoxia would be the first COX-2 inhibitor to gain U.S. approval since Vioxx and Bextra were removed from the market in 2004. Celebrex is currently the only member of this class of drug on the market in the U.S.

The Arthritis Foundation is the leading health organization addressing the needs of some 46 million Americans living with arthritis, the nation's number- one cause of disability. Founded in 1948, with headquarters in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation has chapters and 150 community service points located throughout the country.

The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $380 million in research grants since 1948. The foundation helps individuals take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Information is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-568-4045 or www.arthritis.org.

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